Microbial Freeze Drying Buffer (Filter Sterilized) is a proprietary solution of hydrolyzed plant protein (a substitute for bovine serum albumin) and carbohydrate lyoprotectant meant for the long-term preservation of microorganisms, including both bacteria and fungi. This formulation evolved from Reagent 18, a proven solution for microbial freeze drying described in the ATCC lyophilization manual. Superior to traditional additives like sucrose and skim milk, Microbial Freeze Drying Buffer has a 90% viability of bacteria and is free of all animal products and proteins. This buffer maintains microorganisms’ viability through freezing, water removal, and subsequent storage of freeze dried microbial samples. While sucrose often collapses and shows slow dissolution, OPS Diagnostics’ buffer is less likely to collapse and the dissolution of freeze dried cells is quite rapid.